CNHRA PERSON RECORD · CNHRA-P-303035
Lü Gengsong
Born
Unknown
Occupation
Unknown
Role
Dissident · Public Commentator
Record ID
CNHRA-P-303035
Biography
Lü Gengsong is a political writer and democracy activist whose work criticized the political system.[1]
Lü published criticism of the political system and maintained relationships with democratic activists. PEN America included him in its writers-at-risk records.[1][2]
A PEN joint letter dated April 3, 2023 relays Wang Xue’e’s account of visiting her husband on March 18. Speaking through glass, Lü turned his mask to reveal words translated as “Help me.” The letter says the telephone connection briefly stopped when she asked about them. He then described discarded warming supplies. It also reports delayed newspapers, restrictions on pens, undelivered letters and suspended visits, and asks prison officials to investigate.[2]
Case Summary
Timeline
2016
Sentenced to eleven years
PEN America records an eleven-year sentence connected to political writing. Lü published criticism of the political system and maintained activist relationships.[1]
2023
Family visit and prison treatment prompt concern
2025-07
Released after completing sentence
PEN America records Lü Gengsong’s release on completion of his sentence in July 2025.[1]
Related Events
Sources
- [1]
CNHRA-S-422119PEN America
Evidence location: Profile: political writing, 2016 eleven-year sentence, 2023 visit and July 2025 release; translated charge terminology is not forced into agreement.
- [2]
CNHRA-S-166714PEN International
Evidence location: Letter: sentence, family visit and reported treatment; Joint letter, section I: the March 18, 2023 family visit and words inside the mask.